"I'll do it," I declared, my voice unwavering despite the tension in the air.
"No, you can't; you're not even supposed to be here," the reply came, sharp and disapproving, slicing through the moment like a cold wind.
"I'll do it." My resolve was a steel rod, unyielding even in the face of opposition.
With a sudden rush, my body collided against the wooden dresser, the impact jolting me as I lost my balance, careening towards the wall. It felt like time slowed as I hurtled forward, my face meeting the unforgiving surface with a harsh thud, the breath knocked from my lungs in an instant.
